Luke Gosling (Solomon, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

  On Sunday morning, we commemorated the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea with a ceremony at the USS Peary Memorial on Darwin's Esplanade. Known as the 'battle for Australia', the conflict saw US and Australian forces combine to ward off the Japanese attack. It cemented a very close bond with our American allies. I am extremely proud that this friendship continues today, with a group from the Marine Rotational Force - Darwin helping to save an Australian-made World War II patrol boat that sank in Darwin Harbour last year.

The MV Rushcutter, known as HDML 1321, was active during World War II, taking Australian Z special forces behind enemy lines.    A group has come together in our community to save the vessel. These dedicated people have been campaigning long and hard to honour those who served our country. I want to thank all those who have got behind this project, which aims to enhance our military tourism venture for the Top End. I thank the NT government and the Darwin Port authority, who have given the Rushcutter a 'stay of execution'. This is appreciated. I also thank the Paspaley Group, who have offered a space at the 'duck pond', where restoration can be carried out, and Bhagwan Marine, who have put on a barbecue today for the US marines who are working to lighten the load in the vessel so that we can lift it onto a truck and get it to the Paspaley yard. I give my heartfelt thanks to the US marines who are helping to save our military heritage. Semper fidelis—forever faithful.